Two connected buildings containing eight units each have been approved for lands at 24 Gouldie Street. The two buildings would be two storeys in height each and contain 16 rental units between the two.
At its February 15 meeting, planning council heard that the buildings would be geared to seniors and provide much-needed affordable housing in the community through the receipt of Muskoka Affordable Housing Initiatives Program funding. The District of Muskoka defines affordable rental housing as rents set at 20 per cent below the average area market rate.
The lot at 24 Gouldie Street is approximately 2,630m² with 30m of frontage.
Several Goudie Street residents attended the meeting concerned about added traffic in an already congested area. Councillors noted that much of the traffic stems from the school and suggested staff could reach out to the school board.
Other concerns regarding the proposed buildings included the impact two multi-res buildings with very little green space would have on the neighbourhood, and questions about where the amenity space would be.
Planning consultant for the applicants told the planning council that the church as well as the nearby school have open green space.
Applicants Steve Hernen and Ken Oben made a virtual appearance before the committee. “We feel that this will be a good, quiet, well-fit property in the neighbourhood,” said Hernen. He also spoke to the 24 parking spots being required, “I would highly doubt that you will see six cars.” Citing their other housing projects, Hernen said people in need of affordable housing cannot easily afford a vehicle.
Councillors said they understood that residents did not want a development in their neighbourhood but said there is a need for affordable housing. They approved the development with a reduction of the required parking spaces from 24 to 20 to provide more amenity space. They also approved the required zoning change to permit the development including a reduction of the rear yard setback from 10m to 3.65m for the multiple residential dwelling buildings; the reduction of the setback from a parking area to any lot line abutting a residential zone from 4m to 1.5m; and the reduction of the minimum required width for an aisle providing access to a parking lot with 90degree angle spaces from 6.7m to 6m.
Staff’s report noted that the Holding (H) provision may be removed and development may proceed upon the Director of Development Services being satisfied that the following has been completed:
- Appropriate watercourse setback and mitigation measures be confirmed through a technical report by a qualified biologist;
- Hydraulic Water and Wastewater Modelling is completed to the satisfaction of the District Municipality of Muskoka;
- And that the applicant enter an agreement with the District Municipality of Muskoka respecting municipal water and sewer servicing, capacity allocation, and disposal of solids.
To find planning staff’s report, follow the link to the Brunel Management file here.
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It seems like a perfect location for apartments. I hope that they get built!
No Sidewalks exist on the street.
If it’s for Seniors with few cars and will be walking…
Is there a plan for sidewalks and to be maintained in Winter.?
Just asking.